The 44-year-old Bone Student Center's major renovation project kicks off Friday with a groundbreaking ceremony. The $33 million project will include work to the north and west entrances and the Brown Ballroom. A new addition will include a Barnes and Noble bookstore, a two-story atrium and a welcome center. The kitchen and office space are also due for some changes.

The project will be mainly funded through university reserve funds.

“The revitalization will transform the Bone Student Center into an enticing doorway to campus,” said Director of Event Management, Dining and Hospitality Bill Legett. “New entrances will provide a more welcoming environment, and an exciting interior design will add more natural light and open seating for all.”

Construction is expected to be complete by 2020. Legett said the staff will seek to minimize disruption during the multi-year construction project. The Bone Student Center sees an estimated 5,000 visitors per day.